Recalling Ukraine, Latvian Leader Warns on Putin

In interview, Raimonds Vejonis says West should be wary of Russia as partner in Syria

NEW YORK—Latvia’s president warned the West against trusting Moscow as a partner as Russia expands its role in Syria, pointing to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s success in gaining control over parts of Ukraine while trying to intimidate and divide Europe.

In an interview with The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, Raimonds Vejonis expressed deep skepticism that the year-end deadline for fully implementing a peace accord for eastern Ukraine would be met and blamed Russia for continuing to foment instability. “It’s very...